Strange smell makes over 30 kids, teachers sick at Noord-Holland school

The Martinus College in Grootebroek, Noord-Holland was evacuated late on Wednesday morning after between 30 and 40 students and teachers became unwell. A strange smell left the people in the school feeling nauseous and dizzy. One student fainted, NOS reports.

The ill students and teachers were treated outside the school by a score of emergency services. One person started hyperventilating and was taken to hospital.

Exactly what caused the smell and health complaints is still unclear. The fire department took various measurements at the school, but found no hazardous substances. There were rumors of tear gas, but these were discredited by the local safety office. "No substances were identified that pointed to [tear gas]. There were also no canisters that could contain te substance", a spokesperson said to the broadcaster.

The emergency services are still discussing whether further investigation is needed at the school. The building was released to the public again. Students did not have to return for the rest of the day.